James H. Schutte
Family
Liliaceae
Botanical Name
AGAPANTHUS( Headbourne Hybrid)
Plant Common Name
African Lily, Lily-of-the-Nile
General Description
The English Headbourne hybrids are some of the hardiest Agapanthus available. These evergreen to semi-evergreen perennials bear dense clusters of lily-like flowers in variable shades of violet-blue or white. Each flower head has around 70 to 75 florets. Where hardy, they are best grown in the landscape but in colder climates may be grown in containers if provided large spacious pots. Bloom time is variable, depending on the local climate and water availability, but plants typically bloom in summer.
The long strap-like leaves of this tender perennial are medium green and produced in substantial clumps. Though technically evergreen, the foliage may die back until spring if plants are subjected to hard, but not killing, frost. Attractive rounded clusters of small, lily-like, violet-blue flowers are produced throughout the growing season. Each small six-petaled bloom is trumpet-shaped. Bees pollinate the flowers and small seed capsules that turn from green to brown follow. Cut spent stems back to keep plants looking tidy and encourage further bloom.
Provide lily-of-the-Nile full to partial sun and soil that is fertile, well-drained and has a neutral pH. Water regularly during the summer months for best flowering, but keep plants drier through the winter months. Established plants will withstand substantial periods of drought. Specimens grown in containers or small garden spaces should be divided regularly as clumps tend to spread vigorously.
Lily-of-the-Nile is best planted as a groundcover, border specimen or container plant. It is quite carefree; pest and disease problems are few and deer do not feed on it.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
8 - 11
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Sunset Zone
H1, H2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Tender Perennial
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
2'-4' / 0.6m - 1.2m
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Width
2'-3' / 0.6m - 0.9m
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Bloom Time
Summer, Late Summer, Early Fall
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Native To
Hybrid Origin, South Africa
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Container, Cutflower, Edging, Feature Plant, Foundation, Groundcover, Mixed Border, Rock Garden / Wall
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Attracts
Hummingbirds
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Self-Sowing
No
